Five graduate TIJT during summer ceremonies

Published or Revised August 06, 2009

The Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology, a division of Paris Junior College, held summer graduation ceremonies on Aug. 6 for Jewelry Technology and Fine Watch Repair students. Division Chair Ulla Raus welcomed the graduates, friends and family members and introduced TIJT faculty, staff and guests. Clay Minton, TIJT Horology Advisory Committee member, was the guest speaker. He shared what makes individuals ordinary, extra-ordinary and extraordinary. "Ordinary people know what they want; extra-ordinary people know what they truly want and will do more to make it happen; extraordinary people are better able to focus on what they want to achieve, they stay on task using patience and control," he told the graduates. "Extra-ordinary people overcome fear and move out of their comfort zone. Extraordinary people tap into a power greater than themselves. 'God will take you places you can't go on your own,'" Minton said. "Extraordinary people do ordinary things better by using their time wisely; have patience to reach their goals; practice their skills and learn from experience. If, in your vocation, you learn to do ordinary things better, then someone will recognize these traits and will call you extraordinary." Dean of Workforce Training and Continuing Education Kevin Rose presented certificates in Jewelry Technology to Amy P. Hough of Little Rock, Ark; Angela C. Hampton of Sulphur Springs; Alex Trejo of Fort Worth; and Monika M. Oberle of Claflin, Kans. Nathaniel James Ridley of Dallas received a certificate for Fine Mechanical Watch Repair. Oberle also received a Casting Certificate. Stuller Inc., a prime manufacturer and distributor of jewelry and jewelry-related products, with administrative headquarters in Lafayette, La., awarded gift certificates to each of the graduates. Following the ceremonies, those in attendance joined the graduates for refreshments and celebration.